RESHMI YADAV, OP
Bhubaneswar: The ‘I am with Nature’ painting exhibition, organised by the Ketaki Foundation Trust, was inaugurated Wednesday at the Lalit Kala Akademi at Regional Centre Gallery here. The six-day exhibition features 20 paintings by ten eminent Odia artists, created during the Lulung Painters’ Camp 2024 at the Similipal Biosphere Reserve in Mayurbhanj. The inauguration was attended by Utkal University of Culture vice- chancellor Prasan K Swain, Padma Shri Adwaita Gadanayak, renowned sculptor, Regional Secretary of Lalit Kala Akademi Ramakrishna Vedala, the Lulung Painters’ Camp 2024 convener Ramahari Jena and IFS officer Samrat Gowda. A special catalogue reflecting the artists’ engagement with nature was also released.
Speaking at the event, Gadanayak said, “Nature is a fundamental source of artistic inspiration, and this exhibition beautifully merges contemporary art with indigenous traditions.” Swain added, “This initiative celebrates Odisha’s artistic heritage while fostering a creative dialogue between artists and local communities.” The exhibition also features Jhoti-Chita paintings and artworks by schoolchildren and tribal women from Lulung, created during special workshops aimed at preserving indigenous art forms. Additionally, Gouda announced support for a photography camp in Similipal to further strengthen the bond between nature and artistic expression. Open to the public until March 31, from 11am to 7 pm, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to experience the fusion of art and nature.
